The Summit at
Drexel University
Other Systems
FIRE PROTECTION
PLUMBING
Sanitary Water
Storm Water
Domestic Water
The red foam strips detailed below were a late addition to the building. These foam strips have fire retardant properties to prevent heat from damaging the metal studs that make up the partition walls. Similarly, the concrete walls were covered with purple gypsum board, which has a fire rating of one hour of resistance.
The plumbing system can be broken up into three sections: storm water drainage, sanitary water, and domestic water. The storm water system takes the water that is collected on the roof and drains it to an enormous 30'x50' water retention basin below the lower level. To ensure there are no areas where ponding can occur, there are many drains dispersed throughout the roof. All of the on the tower roof funnel down into seven risers that run vertical through the building and then horizontal to the basin.
The Lancaster Avenue wing has a similar scheme with less concentrated risers and drains. Eight drains that funnel into four risers are installed on the roof of the nine story section. While twelve drains the combine into six risers make up the storm water drainage on the Lancaster wing. These risers also drain to the water retention basin below the lower level.
The sanitary plumbing only serves one purpose: to remove waste and waste water from the units and restrooms. These risers channel the waste out of the down the building and into the sewer below grade.
The domestic water system supplies spaces with clean water for human consumption. The water is pumped vertically and distributed to every sink and shower in each unit. This system also supplies the kitchen in the dining area with potable water for cooking and washing dishes.
The sprinkler portion of the fire protection system consists of a network of piping with sprinkler heads periodically dispersed on the pipes. These pipes are supplied with water from the city's underground main water line with approval of city officals. Once approved, that water main is tapped into and a meter is installed to monitor the quanitity of water used.